Earlier this year, Avid released an iPad app called Avid Studio. The app is a scaled down version of Avid’s pro video editing tool for desktop PCs. It has been released to compete with Apple's own iMovie app, but distinguishes itself in many ways.

Avid Studio includes basic versions of tools one would expect in a full editing suite. The Storyboard allows quick arranging of clips, while the Timeline is used for more precise edits. You can capture video and photos right within the app or import media from the iPad's storage or through an optional iPad Camera Connection Kit.

Enhancements to your video are also available, including dissolves, fades, text titles, 3D animations, and voiceovers. Multiple video tracks can be composited to superimpose one image on another, and motion titles and graphics can be fully customized in terms of font, color, size, position, and rotation. Use pre-packaged sound effects to accentuate moments in your video.

Another feature is the ability to export a project via iTunes or iCloud to the Avid Studio app for the PC, which has more advanced tools. It also makes sharing your finished product on Twitter, Facebook, and email as easy as the click of a button.

For help getting started, Avid Studio includes how-to materials. It uses intuitive gestures for editing, like pinching to resize the Timeline, to get you up and running quickly.

Avid Studio was PCmag.com's Editor's Choice in April 2012. It is priced at $4.99 in the iTunes App Store.